Vulvovaginitis



Vulvovaginitis





Vulvovaginitis is an inflammation of the vulva (vulvitis) and vagina (vaginitis) that may occur at any age and affects most females at some time. Because of the proximity of these two structures, inflammation of one usually precipitates inflammation of the other. The prognosis is good with treatment.


Causes

Common causes of vaginitis (with or without consequent vulvitis) include the following:



  • Infection with Trichomonas vaginalis, a protozoan flagellate that is usually transmitted through sexual intercourse


  • Infection with Candida albicans, a fungus that requires glucose for growth


  • Bacterial vaginosis (previously known by various names such as Gardnerella vaginalis, Haemophilus vaginalis, and nonspecific vaginitis), which is characterized by a decrease in lactobacilli with a concomitant increase in anaerobic bacteria


  • Venereal infection with Neisseria gonorrhoeae (gonorrhea), a gram-negative diplococcus


  • Viral infection with genital warts (Condylomata acuminata) or herpes simplex virus type 2, which are usually transmitted by intercourse

Common causes of vulvitis (with or without consequent vaginitis) include the following:



  • Parasitic infection (Pthirus pubis, or crab lice), traumatic injury, or poor personal hygiene


  • Chemical irritations or allergic reactions to hygiene sprays, douches, detergents, clothing, or toilet paper


  • Retention of a foreign body such as a tampon

Vaginal mucosal atrophy in menopausal women increases the risk for bacterial invasion because of decreasing estrogen levels.


Complications

Inflammation and edema may affect the perineum. Skin breakdown may lead to secondary infection.


Assessment Findings

Signs and symptoms may vary according to the infecting organism:

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Jul 20, 2016 | Posted by in INFECTIOUS DISEASE | Comments Off on Vulvovaginitis

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